Celebrating Leadership & Heart: Brissian Montes Sias Named J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award Winner

The J.E.G.N.A. Klub’s mission is clear and powerful: to empower young people to become who and what they want to be. Each week, the program highlights a Kansas City, Kansas student who embodies the values of Justice, Empowerment, Growth, Nurturing, and Advocacy (J.E.G.N.A.). These qualities go beyond academics and athletics—they shape future leaders.

This week, that honor belongs to Brissian Montes Sias, a remarkable student at New Chelsea Elementary School, celebrated as the J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week (September 4, 2025).

Why Brissian?

Brissian was nominated by her teacher, Ms. Lydia Bartee-Nash, who shared:

“At New Chelsea Elementary, Brissian stands out for her kindness, integrity, and determination. She approaches challenges with curiosity and perseverance, never shying away from difficult tasks. Equally, she uplifts classmates with compassion and a willingness to help. Brissian’s blend of character, leadership, and intellectual curiosity truly reflects the best of our student body.”

Those words perfectly capture why Brissian’s recognition matters—not only is she excelling in her studies, she is inspiring her peers to rise alongside her.

The Award Ceremony

The award was presented at New Chelsea Elementary in front of 3rd and 4th grade students, staff, and Brissian’s family. The Honorable Judge Tony Martinez, who led the ceremony, stressed the importance of such recognition:

“It went extremely well, especially being able to present in front of a whole lunch period. The majority of students were either immigrant or minority—it is important they see they are valued. Recognizing one student motivates others and validates every child’s worth.”

The energy in the room reflected that truth. Assistant Principal Barbara Hermocillo added:

“Presenting the award with Brissian, her family, classmates, and staff was exactly what we needed! Come back and see us again.”

The recognition became not just Brissian’s moment, but a schoolwide celebration of leadership, compassion, and community.

Community Reflections

Several leaders and mentors joined in support, showing how wide-reaching the impact of recognition can be.

• Coach Keyz, Student of the Week coordinator:

“It was a great start to the year. The additional community members and sponsors who came to support were very inspirational. Recognitions like this are important because they motivate students to keep striving for greatness.”

• Jermaine Howard, Candidate for Wyandotte County District 1 Commissioner:

“Youth seldom get the chance to be celebrated, and they need that support to keep striving for excellence. Always remember to show up, listen, and work hard.”

• Erik Murray, CEO of Eastside Innovation:

“Recognition motivates not just the winner, but all students who witness it. This program meets that need by building both belief and hope in our youth.”

More Than Just an Award

The Student of the Week Award goes beyond applause. Each honoree receives:

• A Student of the Week T-shirt

• A custom glass award

• A Stockpile ‘Any Stock’ gift card

• A copy of either From Teen to Millionaire or Stick Talk – Understanding the Stock Market e-book by Chris Dunlap of Nu Wall Street.

Non-family nominators—teachers, coaches, or mentors—also receive recognition packages, reinforcing the vital role of adults in shaping young leaders.

The program extends further through the Economic Independence Academy, which offers awardees and their families workshops in investing, stock market basics, healthcare education, and homeownership. This ensures recognition is not just symbolic but also equips families with tools for long-term success.

A Bigger Vision

Since its founding in 2020, the Jegna Klub has become a cornerstone for youth empowerment in Kansas City, Kansas. Through mentorship, leadership development, and creative spaces, the Klub gives young people opportunities to rise above challenges and step into their purpose.

The Student of the Week program is one of its most visible efforts. Honorees are recognized in their schools, featured on Jegna Klub TV and Jegna World Blog, and spotlighted on JEGNAFEST Worldwide Radio, syndicated on 152 stations with more than 8 million monthly listeners. That means Brissian’s story—and the values she represents—reach far beyond her school walls.

The initiative thrives thanks to strong partnerships with organizations like the KCK Schools Foundation for Excellence, Merc Co+op, Eastside Innovation, and Nu Wall Street, showing the extraordinary impact of community collaboration.

How to Nominate a Student

Do you know a Kansas City, Kansas student who deserves recognition for their leadership, character, and positive impact? We invite all Kansas City, Kansas schools to participate in this initiative and nominate your exceptional students for the J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week. This award aims to empower and encourage students to become who and what they want to be.

The J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award Criteria:

• Must be a currently Kindergarten through college student enrolled in a KCK School or a current College enrolled student who is a graduate of a KCK High School.

• Excellent academic, athletic (not required), behavioral and attendance record

• Demonstrates leadership, responsibility and/or advocacy qualities taking the lead in word and action

• Empowers their peers, school, and community

Nomination Process:

• Any non-relative adult staff or community member can electronically nominate a student by going to www.thejegnaklub.org home page, click the Nominate Student of the Week, fill out Nomination Form and submit.

• Nominations must be submitted electronically every Friday by 3:00 pm to be considered for the following week.

• Each week, the J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week will be selected from the nominations received for that week only. Winners will be notified on Monday’s and celebrated weekly through school presentations, media features, and global radio broadcasts. Students who are not selected in the first week can be nominated again in the subsequent weeks.

We encourage all non-relative adult staff and community members to participate in this initiative and nominate your students for the J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week. Let’s work together to empower our youths and help them become the leaders of tomorrow.

Looking Ahead

Recognition is a powerful motivator. As Judge Martinez reflected, “It’s very important for each child to feel recognized and seen. This validates the student and motivates them to stay in school.”

For Brissian, this honor is both a celebration of who she is today and encouragement for the leader she is becoming. For her peers and community, it is a reminder that investing in youth creates ripples of confidence, hope, and empowerment.

Congratulations to Brissian Montes Sias, this week’s J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week. Your leadership, compassion, and resilience inspire us all.

#TogetherWeStand #BuildingYouthForTheFuture